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This LRO reader emailed LRO.workshop@bauermedia.co.ukto ask David Long about an intermittent power loss problem with his 2008 Land Rover Defender 110 2.4 TDCi.

Q.

My 2008 Defender 110 2.4 TDCi has developed an intermittent problem (it seems to be happening more regularly) where it suffers a temporary loss of power, which feels like fuel starvation. It happens most after changing up a gear.

When I get back on the throttle, there’s little or no power – after about 5-10 seconds the power comes back. Yesterday, after a 30-mile journey, the engine died in a car park and it took several tries to get it started again. After that, it was fine all the way home.

Terry Clear, Malaga, Spain

A.

Many things could be causing this. The first course of action is for you to have your vehicle plugged in to a diagnostic computer to see if any faults have been stored on the on-board computer. This may well help to guide a trained technician towards the root of the problem. It really is crucial that you do this, as it could save a great deal of time and money in the future.

Without the benefit of the results of such a diagnostic inspection, I can only suggest areas of the vehicle for you to look at:

Ensure that the fuel filter has been replaced, because a blockage in this filter could result in the symptoms you are experiencing.

Check the integrity of the wiring, especially the run that leads to the electronic control unit (ECU) situated on the bulkhead. Ensure that the EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve isn’t seizing; likewise the actuator on the Turbocharger.

Check the operation of the fuel sensor on the fuel injection rail – this can cause problems.

Make sure that the intercooler and turbo pipes are in good condition. Sometimes these pipes can weaken and collapse, especially when they’re under load.

Check the relays under the righthand side seat, making sure that none of them could have worked themselves loose.

Finally, ensure the battery cables and/or connectors aren’t loose.

David Long

This workshop advice appeared in the March 2016 issue of LRO. Back issues are available to download on digital devices here.

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